How Kilbeggan Races Story Began
Over more than 180 years, Kilbeggan has witnessed countless extraordinary moments — from a local winner of the 1916 Irish Grand National who walked home due to the Easter Rising, to races saved by a telegram from the House of Commons in 1917, and many other remarkable tales.
Yet the most remarkable story is Kilbeggan’s journey from the uncertainty of the 1960s to becoming the most successful one-day meeting in Ireland outside of festival racing.
Kilbeggan Today
Kilbeggan’s enduring success lies in its unique formula: thrilling jump racing combined with the relaxed charm of a genuine rural meeting, where atmosphere, friendship and fun remain at the heart of every race day.
As one reporter wrote in 1840:
“On every side was to be seen happy hearts, smiling countenances, and sparkling eyes.”
More than 180 years on, very little has changed.
The First Race
On 9 March 1840, a group of local gentlemen organised the first recorded race in Kilbeggan — a Challenge Cup valued at 40 guineas, with an additional £10 added by the stewards. Early meetings were held at various locations around the town, including the present site.
The Ballard Years
Racing was revived in 1879 with the first official meeting held at Ballard on 17 April, in a field provided by the Locke family, owners of the Kilbeggan Distillery, which remains in operation today. Racing continued at Ballard until 1885.
A Permanent Home
In 1901, racing returned once more, this time to its current location at Loughnagore. Meetings have been held here every year since, with the only interruption occurring during the years 1941–1945.
Years of Challenge
The voluntary committee faced significant difficulties when the Racing Board withdrew financial assistance. Despite these challenges, the course survived through determination and community support.
A Turning Point
Two key developments shaped Kilbeggan’s future:
In 1971, the racecourse switched to all National Hunt racing
In 1973, Kilbeggan staged its first ever sponsored races
These changes helped secure the long-term success of the racecourse.
A Landmark Year
The opening of the new complex in 1990 marked a major milestone, alongside the purchase of the racecourse lands. That same year, Kilbeggan was awarded Racecourse of the Year, recognising its progress and ambition.
Major Investment
Further development continued with the opening of the Pavilion in May 1999 at a cost of £1 million. Additional improvements included:
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Surfacing of the concourse
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Extension of the enclosure
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Development of a dedicated marquee site
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Widening of the track to accommodate larger fields and additional meetings
By this stage, investment in facilities exceeded £1.7 million, bringing Kilbeggan’s standards in line with the best racecourses in Ireland.
Growth and Success
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Race meetings increased from three to ten per year
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Attendance grew from 20,000 in 1995 to 50,000 in 2024
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Sponsorship expanded rapidly, with local businesses contributing nearly €100,000 in 2024
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The Midlands National emerged as the most significant sponsorship, raising the prize fund to €100,000
